A few things I'm loving lately:

1.  I'm a sucker for a skirt set - give me multiple ways to wear a few items, and I'm sold. Top with jeans, skirt with tee, top and skirt together...so much to love about a set, which is why this pair (sold separately) in my favorite color of red-orange was a no-brainer. Bold, comfortable, cotton, and under $56 for both. (Skirt , Top)

2. I can usually select any title from Grace Atwood's Library and enjoy it, but this book was an exceptional pick from her. A twist on the typical fairy tale, I was fully engrossed in this fictional accounting of a princess at odds with her picture-perfect life, and I'm still thinking about the freedoms of a female body, societal expectations of a public life, and what it means to be of service as a member of a royal family. I'm not at all interested in the monarchy, but this wonderfully-written story from the inside was entirely compelling.

3. A recent trip to Richmond, Virginia allowed a few hours of unclaimed time in our schedule, so a visit to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts was the most delightful diversion. Aside from the charming restaurants and outdoor sculpture garden (all lovely) their permanent collections were a joy to discover, and one of my favorites on display was this 19th-century custom charm bracelet possibly designed and created by the firm of Fabergé with the most incredible carved hardstone, gold, and jeweled animals, figures, and charms. (I could not get over the enamel and diamond lobster claw or the gold Foo dog!) 

4. This one's for my Louisville peeps: if you have not yet experienced the deliciousness of M. Peppers in the Highlands, may I suggest a visit? It's a charming French bistro that serves weekend brunch and nightly dinner with elegant indoor seating and a relaxing umbrella-covered outdoor patio, too. Though an entire meal is the real treat, their happy hour has fantastic cocktails and maybe the best cone of fries in town.

5. Reminding me of A Man Called Ove, Ouiser from Steel Magnolias, and a bit of its own mystery, magic, and personality, this gem of a story was wonderful as an audiobook. The characters come to life through the unique voices and performance, and I found myself pivoting back and forth on the dual timeline of the tale, wanting to know and understand the main character (Mabel) more and more.